US4785483A - Integrated passenger seat and toilet apparatus and method - Google Patents

Integrated passenger seat and toilet apparatus and method Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US4785483A
US4785483A US07/142,957 US14295788A US4785483A US 4785483 A US4785483 A US 4785483A US 14295788 A US14295788 A US 14295788A US 4785483 A US4785483 A US 4785483A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
toilet
seat
vehicle
passenger seat
attached
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
US07/142,957
Inventor
Paul H. Wise
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US07/142,957 priority Critical patent/US4785483A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US4785483A publication Critical patent/US4785483A/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60RVEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R15/00Arrangements or adaptations of sanitation devices
    • B60R15/04Toilet facilities
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47KSANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K11/00Closets without flushing; Urinals without flushing; Chamber pots; Chairs with toilet conveniences or specially adapted for use with toilets
    • A47K11/04Room closets; Chairs with toilet conveniences or specially adapted for use with toilets, e.g. night chairs ; Closets for children, also with signalling means, e.g. with a music box, or the like
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03DWATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
    • E03D5/00Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to toilets for vehicles and, more particularly, to an apparatus and method for a toilet for vehicles wherein the toilet is an integral part of a functional passenger seat having multiple uses.
  • the toilet of the present invention is basically comprised of a passenger vehicle seat, a toilet bowl, a modified seat cushion, a water supply, a waste system and a seat swivel mechanism.
  • the toilet is functionally integrated with a vehicle passenger seat in a van, recreational vehicle or cross country truck and allows the seat to be used in multiple orientations for a variety of seating arrangements.
  • Vehicles are supplied with toilets to enable its passengers to travel long distances without leaving the vehicle, to avoid having to use public restrooms, to provide accessible private toilet facilities for handicapped travellers, and to provide toilet facilities in remote geographical areas.
  • Vehicles have limited interior space and interior toilet apparatuses must be space efficient. Further, modern travel conditions require that any mobile toilet apparatus retain waste for disposal at an appropriate site.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 1,359,544 describes a toilet device for automobiles.
  • a commode structure is located between the front and rear seats and is hinged so that, when not in use, the structure is lowered beneath the floor of the automobiles.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 1,569,571 provides a toilet apparatus when an automobile seat is temporarily removed.
  • the apparatus consists of an orifice in the floor of the vehicle covered by hinged doors. The doors swing up to support a toilet seat hinged to the side of the vehicle.
  • the toilet systems taught by the prior art do not provide a passenger seat adapted with a toilet system which is self contained beneath an easily removable seat cushion and which is adapted to provide a sanitary toilet system having a water supply and a waste holding tank.
  • a need exists for a toilet apparatus for vehicles which is integrated with a passenger seat so as to require no space in the vehicle beyond that occupied by a regular seat, does not require removal of seats or seat sections, contains holding tanks while providing a seal against odor and splashing liquids, and provides for multiple positioned uses of the passenger seat within the vehicle.
  • the present invention provides an apparatus and a method for installation of a toilet in a vehicle so that the toilet is integrated with the structure of a rotatable vehicle seat, requires no additional space within the vehicle, and provides for sanitary collection of waste materials.
  • the apparatus of the present invention consists of a modified passenger seat, a toilet which is structurally integrated with the seat, a water supply system, a waste system and a swivel mechanism.
  • the method consists of providing a toilet structurally integrated with a passenger seat, modifying the vehicle to provide a water supply and a waste system, installing the toilet apparatus within the vehicle, and using the toilet apparatus.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle showing the adapted passenger seat of the present invention enclosed by a privacy curtain and installed behind the vehicle driver's seat.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the adapted passenger seat of the present invention showing the hinged seat cushion in an open position and showing the stationary toilet seat and bowl of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 shows a side elevational view of the present invention taken along line 3--3 of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is a fragmented sectional view taken along line 4--4 of FIG. 2 showing the seat structure, the seat cushions, the toilet bowl and associated vehicle floor mounting including the swivel mechanism of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a fragmented plan view taken alone line 5--5 of FIG. 3 showing the stop positions of the passenger seat swivel mechanism.
  • FIG. 6 is a fragmented frontal view of the toilet and passenger seat of the present invention taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 2 showing the hinged seat cushion in a latched, closed and sealed position and conforming to the stationary toilet seat on the toilet bowl.
  • FIG. 7 is a functional diagram of the vehicle toilet system showing, the water supply, and the waste system of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 there is shown a specially adapted vehicle passenger seat, generally designated 10, which comprises the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Passenger seat 10 is rotatably mounted behind driver's seat 13, within vehicle 12, wherein a privacy curtain 11 is provided.
  • passenger seat 10 is seen to be provided with a seat back cushion 14, a fixed seat cushion section 15, a hinged seat cushion section 16, hinged arm rests 17 rotating in direction of arrows a4, and exterior pedestal covering 18.
  • the underside 16a of hinged seat section 16 is contoured to conform to a stationary toilet seat 22 whereby protrusion 16b conforms to the open section 22a of toilet seat 22.
  • Hinged seat cushion section 16 is hinged to passenger seat 10 by hinges 53 and may be securely latched when being used in a closed position with latch 54. Rotation about hinges 53 in direction of arrow a5 raises seat cushion section 16 and exposes toilet 20.
  • FIGS. 2, 3 and 6 show gasket 16c provided to maintain a sealed interface between the passenger seat and the toilet system beneath seat cushion 16.
  • FIG. 2 further shows inner lining 43 of the toilet of the present invention and direction of swivel mechanism a1.
  • FIG. 3 further shows flush lever 48.
  • FIG. 4 shows toilet of the present invention, generally designated 20, exterior pedestal cover 18, seat structure 19, seat back cushion 14, fixed seat cushion 15, and hinged seat cushion 16 in a closed position.
  • Toilet seat 22 is fixedly attached to chair structure 19 at mounting hole 23 with screw fastener 24.
  • Upper end 25 of toilet bowl 20 is attached within chair structure 19 at weldments 21.
  • Lower end 27 of toilet bowl 20 is fixedly attached to bearing swivel assembly generally designated 28 at weldments 27a.
  • FIG. 4 further shows toilet 20 having outer bowl surface 20b and inner bowl surface 20a.
  • Inner bowl surface 20a has inner lining 43 attached as by using adhesive 44.
  • Inner lining 43 is attached to upper end 46a of drain pipe 46 at joint 45.
  • Lower end 46b of drain pipe 46 passes through vehicle floor 30 at hole 30a, through o-ring 52 and sanitary lip seal 51, and through entry 50 to holding tank 49.
  • FIG. 4 further shows flexible water supply hose 38 having slack loop 38a. End 36 of flexible water supply hose 38 is fastened to inlet port 35 of perforated water rinse ring 33 by clamp 37. Perforated water rinse ring 33 is mounted in toilet 20 at entry hole 32. Operation of flush lever 48 reversibly activates flush linkage 48a which passes into toilet 20 at entry hole 32a and reversibly raises flush float 47 from lowered and closed position 47a to raised and open position 47b, allowing waste to flow through drain pipe 46 in direction of arrows a3.
  • Swivel mechanism 28 of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.
  • Lower end 27 of toilet 20 is fixedly attached to inner bearing race 28a at weldments 27a.
  • Outer bearing race 29 is fixedly mounted to vehicle floor 30 with bolt fasteners 31.
  • Ball bearings 28b allow rotation of inner bearing 28a and attached toilet 20 in directions of arrow a1.
  • Seat latch 26a is attached to toilet 20 at weldment 26b and comprises latch mechanism
  • FIG. 4 shows latch mechanism 30e engaged at forward detente position 30b of vehicle floor 30. Rotation of the toilet in directions of arrow a1 is alternatively arrested at side position by side detente position 30c and at back position by back detente position 30d.
  • FIG. 7 schematically illustrates water supply and waste systems of the invention.
  • Switch 41 controls current from electrical source 42 to pump 39.
  • Pump 39 withdraws water from water supply reservoir 40 through flexible hole 38 in direction of arrows a2 to toilet bowl 20 at entrance 32. Waste fluids flow through lower toilet bowl 26 into holding tank 49 in direction of arrow a3.
  • Water supply reservoir 40 has fill 40a and holding tank 49 has drain 49a.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Vehicle Waterproofing, Decoration, And Sanitation Devices (AREA)

Abstract

Apparatus and method for integrated passenger seat and toilet for vehicles. The apparatus includes a structural seat, an integrated toilet, a water supply, a waste system and a swivel mechanism. The method includes modifying the vehicle, supplying the apparatus, installing the apparatus and using the apparatus. The passenger seat rotates to lockable positions for use in multiple orientations. Segmented seat cushion is hingeably attached to structural seat members and molded to provide a seal with the toilet seat below. Water is pumped from a reservoir through a flexible hose to a ported water rinse ring in the toilet. Wastes are released through a flapper mechanism into a holding tank sanitarily sealed to the toilet. Privacy curtain is provided.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to toilets for vehicles and, more particularly, to an apparatus and method for a toilet for vehicles wherein the toilet is an integral part of a functional passenger seat having multiple uses. The toilet of the present invention is basically comprised of a passenger vehicle seat, a toilet bowl, a modified seat cushion, a water supply, a waste system and a seat swivel mechanism. The toilet is functionally integrated with a vehicle passenger seat in a van, recreational vehicle or cross country truck and allows the seat to be used in multiple orientations for a variety of seating arrangements.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
Vehicles are supplied with toilets to enable its passengers to travel long distances without leaving the vehicle, to avoid having to use public restrooms, to provide accessible private toilet facilities for handicapped travellers, and to provide toilet facilities in remote geographical areas. Vehicles have limited interior space and interior toilet apparatuses must be space efficient. Further, modern travel conditions require that any mobile toilet apparatus retain waste for disposal at an appropriate site.
Prior art reveals other toilet apparatuses for vehicles. U.S. Pat. No. 1,359,544 describes a toilet device for automobiles. A commode structure is located between the front and rear seats and is hinged so that, when not in use, the structure is lowered beneath the floor of the automobiles.
Another apparatus is described in U.S. Pat. No. 1,454,618. A combined commode and lavatory device consisting of depended basins is installed in a fixed automobile seat, with the various openings and cavities concealed by removable seat cushions.
U.S. Pat. No. 1,569,571 provides a toilet apparatus when an automobile seat is temporarily removed. The apparatus consists of an orifice in the floor of the vehicle covered by hinged doors. The doors swing up to support a toilet seat hinged to the side of the vehicle. The toilet systems taught by the prior art do not provide a passenger seat adapted with a toilet system which is self contained beneath an easily removable seat cushion and which is adapted to provide a sanitary toilet system having a water supply and a waste holding tank. Consequently, a need exists for a toilet apparatus for vehicles which is integrated with a passenger seat so as to require no space in the vehicle beyond that occupied by a regular seat, does not require removal of seats or seat sections, contains holding tanks while providing a seal against odor and splashing liquids, and provides for multiple positioned uses of the passenger seat within the vehicle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for installation of a toilet in a vehicle so that the toilet is integrated with the structure of a rotatable vehicle seat, requires no additional space within the vehicle, and provides for sanitary collection of waste materials. The apparatus of the present invention consists of a modified passenger seat, a toilet which is structurally integrated with the seat, a water supply system, a waste system and a swivel mechanism. The method consists of providing a toilet structurally integrated with a passenger seat, modifying the vehicle to provide a water supply and a waste system, installing the toilet apparatus within the vehicle, and using the toilet apparatus.
Therefore, to the accomplishments of the foregoing objects, the invention consists of the foregoing features hereinafter fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims, the accompanying drawings and following disclosure describing in detail the invention, such drawings and disclosure illustrating, however, but one of the various ways in which the invention may be practiced.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle showing the adapted passenger seat of the present invention enclosed by a privacy curtain and installed behind the vehicle driver's seat.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the adapted passenger seat of the present invention showing the hinged seat cushion in an open position and showing the stationary toilet seat and bowl of the present invention.
FIG. 3 shows a side elevational view of the present invention taken along line 3--3 of FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 is a fragmented sectional view taken along line 4--4 of FIG. 2 showing the seat structure, the seat cushions, the toilet bowl and associated vehicle floor mounting including the swivel mechanism of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a fragmented plan view taken alone line 5--5 of FIG. 3 showing the stop positions of the passenger seat swivel mechanism.
FIG. 6 is a fragmented frontal view of the toilet and passenger seat of the present invention taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 2 showing the hinged seat cushion in a latched, closed and sealed position and conforming to the stationary toilet seat on the toilet bowl.
FIG. 7 is a functional diagram of the vehicle toilet system showing, the water supply, and the waste system of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1, there is shown a specially adapted vehicle passenger seat, generally designated 10, which comprises the preferred embodiment of the present invention. Passenger seat 10 is rotatably mounted behind driver's seat 13, within vehicle 12, wherein a privacy curtain 11 is provided.
Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, and 6, passenger seat 10 is seen to be provided with a seat back cushion 14, a fixed seat cushion section 15, a hinged seat cushion section 16, hinged arm rests 17 rotating in direction of arrows a4, and exterior pedestal covering 18. The underside 16a of hinged seat section 16 is contoured to conform to a stationary toilet seat 22 whereby protrusion 16b conforms to the open section 22a of toilet seat 22. Hinged seat cushion section 16 is hinged to passenger seat 10 by hinges 53 and may be securely latched when being used in a closed position with latch 54. Rotation about hinges 53 in direction of arrow a5 raises seat cushion section 16 and exposes toilet 20.
FIGS. 2, 3 and 6 show gasket 16c provided to maintain a sealed interface between the passenger seat and the toilet system beneath seat cushion 16. FIG. 2 further shows inner lining 43 of the toilet of the present invention and direction of swivel mechanism a1. FIG. 3 further shows flush lever 48.
FIG. 4 shows toilet of the present invention, generally designated 20, exterior pedestal cover 18, seat structure 19, seat back cushion 14, fixed seat cushion 15, and hinged seat cushion 16 in a closed position. Toilet seat 22 is fixedly attached to chair structure 19 at mounting hole 23 with screw fastener 24. Upper end 25 of toilet bowl 20 is attached within chair structure 19 at weldments 21. Lower end 27 of toilet bowl 20 is fixedly attached to bearing swivel assembly generally designated 28 at weldments 27a.
FIG. 4 further shows toilet 20 having outer bowl surface 20b and inner bowl surface 20a. Inner bowl surface 20a has inner lining 43 attached as by using adhesive 44. Inner lining 43 is attached to upper end 46a of drain pipe 46 at joint 45. Lower end 46b of drain pipe 46 passes through vehicle floor 30 at hole 30a, through o-ring 52 and sanitary lip seal 51, and through entry 50 to holding tank 49.
FIG. 4 further shows flexible water supply hose 38 having slack loop 38a. End 36 of flexible water supply hose 38 is fastened to inlet port 35 of perforated water rinse ring 33 by clamp 37. Perforated water rinse ring 33 is mounted in toilet 20 at entry hole 32. Operation of flush lever 48 reversibly activates flush linkage 48a which passes into toilet 20 at entry hole 32a and reversibly raises flush float 47 from lowered and closed position 47a to raised and open position 47b, allowing waste to flow through drain pipe 46 in direction of arrows a3.
Swivel mechanism 28 of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. Lower end 27 of toilet 20 is fixedly attached to inner bearing race 28a at weldments 27a. Outer bearing race 29 is fixedly mounted to vehicle floor 30 with bolt fasteners 31. Ball bearings 28b allow rotation of inner bearing 28a and attached toilet 20 in directions of arrow a1. Seat latch 26a is attached to toilet 20 at weldment 26b and comprises latch mechanism FIG. 4 shows latch mechanism 30e engaged at forward detente position 30b of vehicle floor 30. Rotation of the toilet in directions of arrow a1 is alternatively arrested at side position by side detente position 30c and at back position by back detente position 30d.
FIG. 7 schematically illustrates water supply and waste systems of the invention. Switch 41 controls current from electrical source 42 to pump 39. Pump 39 withdraws water from water supply reservoir 40 through flexible hole 38 in direction of arrows a2 to toilet bowl 20 at entrance 32. Waste fluids flow through lower toilet bowl 26 into holding tank 49 in direction of arrow a3. Water supply reservoir 40 has fill 40a and holding tank 49 has drain 49a.
Therefore, while the present invention has been shown and described herein in what is believed to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is recognized that departures can be made therefrom within the scope of the invention, which is therefore not to be limited to the details disclosed herein but it is to be accorded the full scope of the claims so as to embrace any and all equivalent apparatus.

Claims (18)

I claim:
1. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles, comprising:
(a) a passenger seat;
(b) a toilet structurally integrated with said passenger seat;
(c) a toilet seat attached to said toilet;
(d) swivel mounting means for rotatably mounting said toilet to the vehicle floor;
(e) a water supply system connected to said toilet and adapted to be installed within said vehicle; and
(f) a waste system connected to said toilet and adapted to be installed within said vehicle.
2. An integrated passenger seat and toilet for vehicles as recited in claim 1, wherein said passenger seat includes:
(a) a steel seat structure;
(b) a chair back structure fixedly attached to said steel seat structure;
(c) a back cushion attached to said chair back structure;
(d) a segmented seat cushion attached to said steel seat structure; and
(e) an exterior cover attached to said steel chair structure for covering said toilet.
3. An integrated passenger seat and toilet for vehicles as recited in claim 2, wherein said segmented seat cushion further includes:
(a) a rear cushion section fixedly attached to said steel seat structure; and
(b) a removable cushion section hingeably attached and latchable to said steel seat structure.
4. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 3, wherein said removable cushion section further includes:
(a) a lower surface molded to conform to the contours of said toilet seat; and
(b) a gasket to seal the interface between said lower surface of said removable seat cushion and said toilet seat.
5. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 1, wherein said toilet includes:
(a) a steel bowl having a steel bit tube;
(b) a toilet bowl liner adhesively applied within said steel bowl;
(c) a perforated water supply ring mounted within said steel bowl;
(d) an inlet tube integrally formed within said steel bowl;
(e) a plastic drain pipe within said steel exit tube and attached to said toilet bowl liner; and
(f) a flush mechanism attached to said toilet.
6. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 5, wherein said flush mechanism further includes:
(a) a flush lever;
(b) a flush linkage attached to said flush lever and entering said toilet bowl; and
(c) a flush float attached to said flush linkage mounted within said toilet bowl and over said plastic drain pipe.
7. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 1, wherein said swivel mounting includes:
(a) a bearing mechanism; and
(b) a stop mechanism.
8. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 7, wherein said bearing mechanism further includes:
(a) an inner race fixedly attached to said toilet;
(b) an outer race fixedly attached to said vehicle; and
(c) ball bearing tracks between said inner race and said outer race.
9. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 7, wherein said stop mechanism further includes:
(a) a seat latch attached to said toilet; and
(b) detente positions attached to said vehicle.
10. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 1, wherein said water supply system includes:
(a) a water supply reservoir;
(b) a water supply hose connecting said water supply reservoir to said toilet;
(c) a pump moving water unidirectionally through said water supply hose from said water supply reservoir to said toilet;
(d) an electrical power supply;
(e) an electrical switch controlling the supply of power from said electrical power supply to said pump.
11. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 1, wherein said waste system includes:
(a) a holding tank; and
(b) a seal connecting said toilet to said holding tank including an O-ring and an outer lip seal.
12. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles, comprising:
(a) a passenger seat including
(i) a steel seat structure,
(ii) a chair back structure fixedly attached to said steel seat structure,
(iii) a back cushion fixedly attached to said chair back structure,
(iv) a fixed rear seat cushion section fixedly attached to said steel seat structure, and
(v) a removable cushion section hingeably attached to said steel seat structure;
(b) a toilet structurally integrated with said passenger seat including
(i) a steel bowl for receiving waste,
(ii) a liner within said steel bowl,
(iii) a perforated water supply ring mounted within said steel bowl,
(iv) an inlet tube integrally formed with said steel bowl,
(v) a toilet seat fixedly attached to said steel seat structure,
(vi) a drain pipe integrally attached within said steel bowl,
(vii) a flush flap mounted in said drain pipe;
(c) a swivel mounting attached to said passenger seat including
(i) an inner bearing race fixedly attached to said toilet,
(ii) an outer bearing race adapted to be fixedly attached to said vehicle,
(iii) ball bearing tracks between said inner bearing race and said outer bearing race,
(iv) a seat latch attached to said toilet, and
(v) detente positions for receiving said seat latch and adapted to be attached to said vehicle;
(d) a water supply system connected to said toilet and adapted to be installed within said vehicle, including
(i) a water supply reservoir,
(ii) a water supply hose connecting said water supply reservoir to said toilet,
(iii) a pump moving water unidirectionally through said water supply hose from said water supply reservoir to said toilet,
(iv) an electrical power supply,
(v) an electrical switch controlling the supply of power from said electrical power supply to said pump; and
(e) a waste system connected to said toilet and adapted to be installed within said vehicle, including
(i) a holding tank,
(ii) a double seal connecting said drain pipe of said toilet to said holding tank, and
(iii) a release mechanism operatively connected to said flush flap to release waste from said steel bowl to said holding tank.
13. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 12, wherein said release mechanism further includes:
(a) a flush lever; and
(b) a flush linkage attached between said flush lever and said flash flap and entering said toilet bowl.
14. An integrated passenger seat and toilet system for vehicles as recited in claim 12, further comprising:
(a) an exterior cover attached to said steel seat structure for covering said toilet; and
(b) a privacy curtain adapted to be installed within said vehicle and surrounding said passenger seat.
15. A method for equipping a vehicle with an integrated passenger seat and toilet, comprising:
(a) providing a passenger seat having a chair back and a chair seat;
(b) providing a toilet structurally integrated with said chair seat;
(c) providing a toilet seat attached to said toilet;
(d) modifying said vehicle to accept installation of said provided integrated passenger seat and toilet;
(e) installing said integrated passenger seat and toilet in said vehicle passenger seat and toilet in said vehicle;
(f) providing a swivel mounting attached between said toilet and the floor of said vehicle;
(g) installing a water supply system within said vehicle and connecting said water supply system to said toilet; and
(h) installing a waste system within said vehicle and connecting said waste system to said toilet.
16. A method for equipping a vehicle with an integrated passenger seat and toilet as recited in claim 15, wherein said step of providing said integrated passenger seat and toilet includes:
(a) providing a passenger seat including
(i) a steel seat structure,
(ii) said chair back structure fixedly attached to said steel seat structure,
(iii) a back cushion fixedly attached to said chair back structure,
(iv) a fixed rear seat cushion section fixedly attached to said steel seat structure, and
(iv) a removable cushion section hingedly attached and latched to said steel seat structure;
(b) providing said toilet structurally integrated with said passenger seat including
(i) a steel bowl,
(ii) a liner within said bowl,
(iii) a perforated water supply ring mounted within said steel bowl,
(iv) an inlet tube integrally formed with said steel bowl connecting to said wateer supply ring
(v) said toilet seat fixedly attached to said steel seat structure, and
(vi) a drain pipe integrally attached within said steel bowl;
(c) providing said swivel mounting attached to said passenger seat including
(i) an inner bearing race fixedly attached to said toilet,
(ii) an outer bearing race for fixedly attaching to said vehicle,
(iii) ball bearing tracks for mounting between said inner bearing race and said outer bearing race,
(iv) a seat latch attached to said toilet, and
(v) detente positions stops for attaching to said vehicle;
(d) providing said water supply system for installing within said vehicle, including
(i) a water supply reservoir,
(ii) a water supply hose for connecting said water supply reservoir to said toilet,
(iii) a pump for moving water unidirectionally through said water supply hose from said water supply reservoir to said toilet,
(iv) an electrical power supply,
(v) an electrical switch for controlling the supply of power from said electrical power supply to said pump; and
(e) providing said waste system for installing within said vehicle, including
(i) a holding tank,
(ii) a double seal for connecting said toilet to said holding tank,
(iii) a flush float attached within said toilet, and
(iv) a release mechanism for activating said flush float.
17. A method for equipping a vehicle with an integrated passenger seat and toilet as recited in claim 16, wherein said step of modifying said vehicle includes
(a) mounting said water supply reservoir on said vehicle;
(b) mounting said holding tank on said vehicle;
(c) cutting a hole through the floor of said vehicle above said holding tank;
(d) mounting said detente position stops on the floor of said vehicle; and
(e) hanging a curtain from the ceiling of said vehicle.
18. A method for equipping a vehicle with an integrated passenger seat and toilet as recited in claim 17, wherein said step of installing said integrated passenger seat and toilet in said vehicle includes
(a) pressing said drain pipe tube into said double seal;
(b) fixedly mounting said outeer bearing race to the floor of said vehicle;
(c) connecting said supply hose to said inlet tube;
(d) mounting said waste release lever in said vehicle; and
(e) mounting said electrical switch in said vehicle.
US07/142,957 1988-01-12 1988-01-12 Integrated passenger seat and toilet apparatus and method Expired - Fee Related US4785483A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/142,957 US4785483A (en) 1988-01-12 1988-01-12 Integrated passenger seat and toilet apparatus and method

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/142,957 US4785483A (en) 1988-01-12 1988-01-12 Integrated passenger seat and toilet apparatus and method

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US4785483A true US4785483A (en) 1988-11-22

Family

ID=22501959

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US07/142,957 Expired - Fee Related US4785483A (en) 1988-01-12 1988-01-12 Integrated passenger seat and toilet apparatus and method

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US4785483A (en)

Cited By (27)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5031249A (en) * 1989-06-23 1991-07-16 Thetford Corporation Universal recreational vehicle toilet system with removable holding tank
US5083325A (en) * 1990-07-19 1992-01-28 Joseph Vitullo Commode training apparatus
US5117511A (en) * 1990-01-16 1992-06-02 Anthony Smith Liquid disposal automotive accessory
US5359737A (en) * 1993-02-17 1994-11-01 Hodge Trevorlyn H Convertible multi-functional seat apparatus
US5720513A (en) * 1996-01-16 1998-02-24 Raukauskas; Richard Vehicle seat with removable toilet
US5848443A (en) * 1997-12-08 1998-12-15 Waugh; Aston Portable automobile urinal
US5946742A (en) * 1998-07-15 1999-09-07 Parker; Jerry Paul Truck urine reservoir
US5966750A (en) * 1998-02-20 1999-10-19 Polanco; Margaret Chair for washing disabled individuals
US6212700B1 (en) * 1999-03-29 2001-04-10 Sealand Technology, Inc. Portable toilet unit
WO2004030993A1 (en) * 2002-10-02 2004-04-15 James Michael Shippen Hygiene apparatus and vehicle incorporating the same
US6742195B1 (en) * 2003-01-16 2004-06-01 Janet Mary Shirley Parry Convenience chair with attachable tray/table and optional roll away storage unit-safe senior unit
US20070000042A1 (en) * 2005-06-11 2007-01-04 Karen Wee Vehicle emergency toilet system
US20080163411A1 (en) * 2007-01-05 2008-07-10 International Truck Intellectual Property Company, Llc Urinal system for trucks
US20090249532A1 (en) * 2008-04-08 2009-10-08 Smith Kenneth W Vehicle urinal
JP2010037783A (en) * 2008-08-04 2010-02-18 Inax Corp Sanitary fixture
US8499371B1 (en) 2012-08-29 2013-08-06 Mark A. Becker Inflatable toilet shelter
DE102014101560B3 (en) * 2014-02-07 2015-07-09 Seitz Gmbh Vehicle seat, vehicle bench and vehicle
US9126548B1 (en) 2014-11-10 2015-09-08 Abeer E. M. Alneaimi Push button actuated toilet for motor vehicle
US9365167B1 (en) 2013-10-22 2016-06-14 Portia S. Lampkin Seat device with an integral toilet
US10654426B1 (en) * 2018-12-05 2020-05-19 Justin Keller Toilet apparatus
US10913404B1 (en) * 2020-03-24 2021-02-09 Joseph Anthony Giametta Concealed toilet
US11033158B1 (en) * 2019-07-29 2021-06-15 Jesse Marshall Portable urinal training system and method of use
US11338744B2 (en) * 2020-08-24 2022-05-24 Sikander Singh Randhawa Enclosed toilet system for a truck
WO2022129666A1 (en) * 2020-12-16 2022-06-23 Sergio Palizas Calvo Sanitary toilet for vehicles
US11377046B2 (en) * 2020-07-03 2022-07-05 Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha Vehicle with toilet
US20230001856A1 (en) * 2021-07-02 2023-01-05 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Storage container
US11608015B2 (en) * 2020-06-19 2023-03-21 Michael Lewis Mann RV wastewater transport tank

Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US356654A (en) * 1887-01-25 Commode-chair
US1359544A (en) * 1919-09-08 1920-11-23 Frank I Stiles Toilet for automobiles
US1454618A (en) * 1921-08-30 1923-05-08 Banks Northrop Toilet attachment for automobiles
US1569571A (en) * 1924-10-20 1926-01-12 Pew Franklin Jones Toilet convenience for automobiles
US3731490A (en) * 1972-01-13 1973-05-08 Thermasan Corp Dual waste disposal system and method
DE2741074A1 (en) * 1977-09-13 1979-03-22 Karlheinz Ing Grad Schulz Mobile commode for hospital or private use - has warm water spray and warm air dryer unit for hygienic after-care
US4261613A (en) * 1979-12-27 1981-04-14 Alford Thomas E Convertible van
US4296506A (en) * 1979-11-30 1981-10-27 James A. Falborn Invalid chair
US4600239A (en) * 1985-05-06 1986-07-15 Rosemarie R. Kraft Vehicular seat for handicapped and elderly persons

Patent Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US356654A (en) * 1887-01-25 Commode-chair
US1359544A (en) * 1919-09-08 1920-11-23 Frank I Stiles Toilet for automobiles
US1454618A (en) * 1921-08-30 1923-05-08 Banks Northrop Toilet attachment for automobiles
US1569571A (en) * 1924-10-20 1926-01-12 Pew Franklin Jones Toilet convenience for automobiles
US3731490A (en) * 1972-01-13 1973-05-08 Thermasan Corp Dual waste disposal system and method
DE2741074A1 (en) * 1977-09-13 1979-03-22 Karlheinz Ing Grad Schulz Mobile commode for hospital or private use - has warm water spray and warm air dryer unit for hygienic after-care
US4296506A (en) * 1979-11-30 1981-10-27 James A. Falborn Invalid chair
US4261613A (en) * 1979-12-27 1981-04-14 Alford Thomas E Convertible van
US4600239A (en) * 1985-05-06 1986-07-15 Rosemarie R. Kraft Vehicular seat for handicapped and elderly persons

Cited By (30)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5031249A (en) * 1989-06-23 1991-07-16 Thetford Corporation Universal recreational vehicle toilet system with removable holding tank
US5117511A (en) * 1990-01-16 1992-06-02 Anthony Smith Liquid disposal automotive accessory
US5083325A (en) * 1990-07-19 1992-01-28 Joseph Vitullo Commode training apparatus
US5359737A (en) * 1993-02-17 1994-11-01 Hodge Trevorlyn H Convertible multi-functional seat apparatus
US5720513A (en) * 1996-01-16 1998-02-24 Raukauskas; Richard Vehicle seat with removable toilet
US5848443A (en) * 1997-12-08 1998-12-15 Waugh; Aston Portable automobile urinal
US5966750A (en) * 1998-02-20 1999-10-19 Polanco; Margaret Chair for washing disabled individuals
US5946742A (en) * 1998-07-15 1999-09-07 Parker; Jerry Paul Truck urine reservoir
US6212700B1 (en) * 1999-03-29 2001-04-10 Sealand Technology, Inc. Portable toilet unit
WO2004030993A1 (en) * 2002-10-02 2004-04-15 James Michael Shippen Hygiene apparatus and vehicle incorporating the same
US20060163897A1 (en) * 2002-10-02 2006-07-27 Shippen James M Hygiene apparatus and vehicle incorporating the same
US6742195B1 (en) * 2003-01-16 2004-06-01 Janet Mary Shirley Parry Convenience chair with attachable tray/table and optional roll away storage unit-safe senior unit
US20070000042A1 (en) * 2005-06-11 2007-01-04 Karen Wee Vehicle emergency toilet system
US7313833B2 (en) * 2005-06-11 2008-01-01 Karen Wee Vehicle emergency toilet system
US20080163411A1 (en) * 2007-01-05 2008-07-10 International Truck Intellectual Property Company, Llc Urinal system for trucks
US20090249532A1 (en) * 2008-04-08 2009-10-08 Smith Kenneth W Vehicle urinal
JP2010037783A (en) * 2008-08-04 2010-02-18 Inax Corp Sanitary fixture
US8499371B1 (en) 2012-08-29 2013-08-06 Mark A. Becker Inflatable toilet shelter
US9365167B1 (en) 2013-10-22 2016-06-14 Portia S. Lampkin Seat device with an integral toilet
DE102014101560B3 (en) * 2014-02-07 2015-07-09 Seitz Gmbh Vehicle seat, vehicle bench and vehicle
US9126548B1 (en) 2014-11-10 2015-09-08 Abeer E. M. Alneaimi Push button actuated toilet for motor vehicle
US10654426B1 (en) * 2018-12-05 2020-05-19 Justin Keller Toilet apparatus
US11033158B1 (en) * 2019-07-29 2021-06-15 Jesse Marshall Portable urinal training system and method of use
US10913404B1 (en) * 2020-03-24 2021-02-09 Joseph Anthony Giametta Concealed toilet
US11608015B2 (en) * 2020-06-19 2023-03-21 Michael Lewis Mann RV wastewater transport tank
US11377046B2 (en) * 2020-07-03 2022-07-05 Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha Vehicle with toilet
US11338744B2 (en) * 2020-08-24 2022-05-24 Sikander Singh Randhawa Enclosed toilet system for a truck
WO2022129666A1 (en) * 2020-12-16 2022-06-23 Sergio Palizas Calvo Sanitary toilet for vehicles
US20230001856A1 (en) * 2021-07-02 2023-01-05 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Storage container
US11897425B2 (en) * 2021-07-02 2024-02-13 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Storage container

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US4785483A (en) Integrated passenger seat and toilet apparatus and method
EP0931720B1 (en) Galley vacuum waste disposal system
JPH0775960B2 (en) Universal restroom system for recreational vehicles with removable storage tank
US5819331A (en) Urinal attachment for a toilet
US20090307831A1 (en) Odor-free toilet
US20220055548A1 (en) Enclosed toilet system for a truck
DE3561226D1 (en) Closet pan with an automatic device for cleaning the seat
US9925932B2 (en) Portable private panel toilet system and method
US4982455A (en) Automatically concealed urinal
US4709426A (en) Means for producing a water splash shield for commodes, urinals or the like
US4366584A (en) Bathroom appliances
RU2495981C2 (en) Mobile public toilet
US6643865B2 (en) Lavatory system
US5575020A (en) Water-conserving urinal
US4549321A (en) Urinal
US5299328A (en) Water closet with retractable urinal
US4045827A (en) Combination lavatory and toilet assembly
JP3009466B2 (en) A flush toilet unit having a toilet integrated with a wall
WO1999067470A1 (en) Extensible and retractable urine deflecting apparatus for use with a toilet
US3780383A (en) Retractable recirculating toilet system module
US20100037379A1 (en) Interchangeable toilet tank with urinal
JPH10219800A (en) Rotary type urinal storage unit having drain in rotary shaft
RU110390U1 (en) MOBILE PUBLIC TOILET
WO1997010122A1 (en) Transportable bathroom
JPH1071900A (en) Mobile toilet

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
CC Certificate of correction
FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 19961127

STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362